another what car thread

[AClownsPocket]

I've just got a new job that requires me to commute so I am on the lookout for a new car.

Be doing 25000 miles a year minimum.
Currently considering an E39 525d or a 530d.

Having spent the last three years in Qatar, I'm not used to the petrol prices so was a bit shocked at Diesel. I'm wondering if I would be better with a petrol 530.

I have a budget of £4500. I'm not too bothered about mileage as long as the car has been looked after.

So? Diesel or petrol? Anything else I should be considering for the money?

Cheers

[Another Fluffer]

You would be better going for a Diesel:

Mondeo, leather seats
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2529496.htm

Honda Accord
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2474956.htm

Lexus IS: not Diesel but nice anyway
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2822995.htm

C Class: Automatic
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2700208.htm

C Class: not Automatic
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2711863.htm

406: Coupe, very cheap
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2697019.htm

Audi A4: Nice car overall
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/2626688.htm



I would keep going but I'm sleepy

[bozmandb9]

AClownsPocket said:

I've just got a new job that requires me to commute so I am on the lookout for a new car.

Be doing 25000 miles a year minimum.
Currently considering an E39 525d or a 530d.

Having spent the last three years in Qatar, I'm not used to the petrol prices so was a bit shocked at Diesel. I'm wondering if I would be better with a petrol 530.

I have a budget of £4500. I'm not too bothered about mileage as long as the car has been looked after.

So? Diesel or petrol? Anything else I should be considering for the money?

Cheers

You're pretty much spot on, go for the 530d, get it re-mapped!

Ducks!

[AClownsPocket]

AF, that manual Merc is not bad, but wasn't the build quality of Mercs a bit iffy around that time?

530d is my preferred option but finding one at that price is tricky

[300bhp/ton]

AClownsPocket said:

I've just got a new job that requires me to commute so I am on the lookout for a new car.

Be doing 25000 miles a year minimum.
Currently considering an E39 525d or a 530d.

Having spent the last three years in Qatar, I'm not used to the petrol prices so was a bit shocked at Diesel. I'm wondering if I would be better with a petrol 530.

I have a budget of £4500. I'm not too bothered about mileage as long as the car has been looked after.

So? Diesel or petrol? Anything else I should be considering for the money?

Cheers

For your money you'll usually find a petrol car is easier to buy with more choice, lower mileage and likely better condition and spec.

But also as a rule diesel cars tend to hold their money better, so will be worth more when you come to re-sell. Plus 25,000 miles a year you will likely notice a fuel cost saving.


As for car type, guess it depends what you are after. You could look for something like a luxury petrol powered car, Jag XJ/S-Type, Lexus LS400 or the like that is running (or you convert) to LPG. It won't be any more economical, but as LPG is typical 1/2 to 2/3rds the cost of petrol it will give you a significant pence/mile saving.


If you want to stick with diesels and something comfy, keep an eye out for a 2.0d Jaguar X-Type. Should do 45mpg and be very comfy with it.

Or if you prefer a more sporty option, there are some 698cc powered sports cars that'll do over 50mpg on petrol.